The Indian Navy Submarine INS Sindhukesari has become the first to dock in Indonesia. After passing through the nearby Sunda Strait, the 3,000-ton conventional diesel-electric submarine docked in Jakarta, Indonesia. The exercise was part of the first operational turnaround for INS Sindhukesari. “The Indonesian Navy warmly welcomes the arrival of the Indian submarine INS Shindukesari in Jakarta in order to strengthen bilateral ties,” the Indonesian Navy tweeted.
The long-range mission not only showcases the capabilities of the Indian Navy but also forms part of India’s diplomatic and military outreach to ASEAN countries. India’s strengthened defence ties with these countries come at a time when China’s rhetoric on disputed territorial claims in the South China Sea region remains hostile.
Significance and Geographical Implications
The submarine’s presence in the country comes just weeks after a Chinese coastguard vessel was spotted patrolling in the Natuna Sea, which is part of Indonesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The region is one of many resource-rich areas over which China claims sovereignty. In addition to the INS Sindhukesari, the US aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, one of the world’s largest warships, is stationed in the area following the Chinese incursion.
“Indian warships frequently visit Indonesia and other ASEAN nations. “This first long-distance deployment of a submarine demonstrates the operational capability and reach of the country’s underwater combat arm,” a senior official told the Times of India.
The submarine’s presence in Indonesia comes shortly after India conducted operational training for 21 Philippine personnel in preparation for the exchange of BrahMos cruise missiles between the two countries. As part of the $375 million deal, India will provide the Philippines with three shore-based anti-ship BrahMos batteries. The sale is expected to pave the way for other countries in the region to purchase the jointly developed Indo-Russian missiles.
INS Sindhukesari
INS Sindhukesari is one of the Sindhughosh-class submarines built by Russia. The submarine was first commissioned by the Indian Navy in December 1988 and was recently refitted. The Rs 1,197-crore refit included new weapon systems and a 25-year service extension for the submarine.
To crack the SSB Interview, You can join our SSB interview live classes batch and we recommend you to Enroll SSB INTERVIEW ONLINE COURSE. Trusted by thousands of defence aspirants.
Also read:
